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BIDDEFORD, Maine — The University of New England men's soccer team settled for a 1-1 tie with intrastate foe Thomas College in its home opener on Sunday afternoon at Hazard Field.

Thomas (0-0-1) struck first late in the opening half with Joshua Joseph's goal in the 42nd minute. That lead would hold until a yellow card was issued to Terrier keeper Christopher Boucher during the 49th minute, allowing UNE (1-0-1) the opportunity for a penalty kick. Sam Higgins answered the call, drilling a right-footed kick past newly-subbed keeper Jamie Fischer.

Higgins' goal was the second of his career. He recorded his first in the penultimate game of the 2023 season.
 
Triston O'Hagan, who earned a shutout in UNE's season opener at Maine Maritime, notched six saves. Fischer, Thomas' starter, logged just over 86 minutes and made one save. Boucher entered the game at the beginning of the second half before the Terriers turned back to Fischer immediately before Higgins' penalty kick.

The remainder of the second half featured six more yellow cards, as well as scattered scoring opportunities, with a game-winning goal ultimately evading both sides. O'Hagan made a key save in the 86th minute, and UNE's back line blocked Thomas' last-minute opportunity before time expired.

Sunday's match marked the second consecutive 1-1 tie between the Terriers and the Nor'easters, who were also even during the second match of the 2023 campaign.

UNE is back in action on Tuesday, Sept. 3 to host Bowdoin at 7 p.m.